📜 Introduction.

If Paris has been on your bucket list for as long as you can remember, this ultimate first-timer itinerary is the only guide you’ll need.

I still vividly remember my first time here: feeling slightly overwhelmed, ridiculously excited, and already planning my return trip before I’d even finished my first croissant. Paris has a way of doing that to you.

In this post, I’m sharing an intense 4-day itinerary that’s perfect if it’s your first time in the French capital, or if you simply want to see the city in a balanced, enjoyable way. It mixes must-see landmarks with iconic neighbourhoods that feel lived-in, good food without the fuss, and plenty of walking. Because Paris is best discovered step by step, café by café.

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Day 1: A Taste of the Revolution.

Let’s start big. No visit to the French capital is complete without witnessing the golden opulence of Versailles.

The Palace of Versailles deserves at least a full morning. From the dazzling Hall of Mirrors to the King’s Grand Apartments, it is one of those rare places that truly lives up to the hype. To get there, take the RER C train from central Paris towards Versailles-Chantiers. If the weather is on your side, do not miss a stroll through the manicured gardens. They are a masterpiece of perspective and symmetry.

For lunch, the town of Versailles offers plenty of charming spots to taste authentic French cuisine before you head back to the city.

In the afternoon, I took the train back and alighted at Saint-Michel Notre-Dame. Here, I immersed myrself in the history of Île de la Cité, marvelling at the stained glass of Sainte-Chapelle and the imposing towers of the Conciergerie. From there, I walked along the banks of the Seine until I reached the historic Place de la Bastille.

As I really wished to do a wine and cheese tasting, but only found overpriced activities, I ended the day at Les Petits Crus. In this beautiful cosy restaurant, I enjoyed a selection of 6 wines paired with 6 cheese pieces. It’s approachable, fun and very French.

• H 09.00 – visit to the Palace of Versailles
• H 13.30 – lunch time
• H 16.00 – visit Sainte-Chapelle, Conciergerie and Place de la Bastille
• H 19.30 – wine and cheese tasting dinner

Day 2: Latin Quarter and Artistic Treasures.

Paris has long been a sanctuary for the world’s greatest writers, poets, and artists. The Latin Quarter is the historic heart where these bohemian souls once roamed, and it remains one of the city’s most charismatic districts.

To ensure I didn’t miss any hidden stories or secret courtyards, I joined a free walking tour (via GuruWalk) departing from the Fontaine Saint-Michel. We wandered past the legendary Shakespeare and Company bookshop, the gothic Saint-Séverin Church, and the prestigious Sorbonne University, eventually finishing near the Jardin du Luxembourg.

For lunch, I grabbed a delicious savoury galette and the delicious french onion soup before heading to the Louvre Museum. Seeing the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo in person is a surreal experience, but take time to wander the less crowded wings to see the opulent Napoleon III apartments.

As the day wounded down, I strolled towards the Eiffel Tower area to see the Iron Lady sparkle, before enjoying a cosy dinner at my accommodation.

• H 10.00 – free walking tour of the Latin Quarter
• H 12.30 – lunch time
• H 14.30 – visit the Louvre Museum 
• H 19.00 – stroll around the Tour Eiffel
• H 20.00 – dinner time

Day 3: Essential City Tour and Night Cruise.

Paris is immense, and even a year wouldn’t be enough to uncover all its secrets. For my third day, I focused on an intense discovery of the capital’s greatest hits.

I started with a city centre tour booked on GuruWalk. This tour covers the historic core, passing by the restoration of Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Equestrian Statue of Henri IV, and the iconic glass Louvre Pyramid. It ended at the majestic Tuileries Garden: the perfect spot for a quick lunch.

In the afternoon, I headed north to Montmartre for another free walking tour. This hilltop village feels worlds away from the busy city centre. From the cabaret lights of the Moulin Rouge to the white-domed Basilique de Sacré-Cœur, the streets here are paved with cobblestones and artistic history. The view over Paris from the steps of the basilica is simply breathtaking.

I ended the day with a Seine River Cruise. Seeing the monuments illuminated at night while gliding down the river is pure magic and a must-do for any first-timer.

• H 10.30 – city center tour
• H 13.00 – lunch time
• H 15.00 – Montmartre walking tour
• H 18.30 – Seine river cruise
• H 20.30 – dinner time

Day 4: A Grand Finale.

For my final day, I ventured slightly off the beaten path to the Basilique de Saint-Denis. Known as the birthplace of Gothic architecture, this stunning basilica is the final resting place of the Kings and Queens of France. It is quieter than Notre-Dame but equally spectacular.

To get here, take Metro line 12 to Saint-Lazare, then switch to Metro line 13. Ensure the train is bound for Saint-Denis Université (not Les Courtilles) and alight at Basilique de Saint-Denis.

After lunch, I returned to the city centre to explore the Paris on foot by myself. I admired the Palais Garnier opera house, walked through the grandeur of Place de la Concorde, and marvelled at the Grand Palais and Petit Palais. Crossing the ornate Pont Alexandre III offers one of the best photo opportunities in the city, leading you towards the mighty Arc de Triomphe.

Finally, I spent my last evening strolling through the trendy Le Marais district, famous for its boutiques, falafel, and vibrant nightlife.

• H 10.00 – visit the Basilique de Saint-Denis
• H 13.00 – lunch time
• H 15.00 – explore the most iconic landmarks of Pairs
• H 17.00 – climb the steps of Arc de Triomphe
• H 18.20 – stroll around Le Marais district
• H 20.00 – dinner time

🛏️ Where to Stay in Paris.

Paris isn’t cheap, so choosing the right accommodation is crucial. My advice? Prioritise good transport links over staying right next to a major landmark.

When I visited Paris, I stayed in a college dorm which is no longer an AirBnB accommodation. However, for its position, price and good reviews, I suggest Abaca Messidor by Happyculture. Located in the quiet, residential 15th arrondissement, this hotel offers a lovely small garden and a fantastic breakfast for around €82 per night.

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🍜 What to Eat in Paris.

If there’s one thing Paris does exceptionally well, it’s food. You don’t need Michelin stars to eat well here. In fact, some of the best meals are simple, unpretentious and even affordable!

Here are a few French classics you should absolutely try:

• Croissants and Pain au Chocolat. Start every morning with one. Find a local boulangerie with a queue, and you’re usually safe.
• Crêpes and Galettes. Sweet or savoury, they’re perfect for lunch on the go. A ‘complet’ (ham, cheese, and egg) is the classic choice.
• Steak-frites. Simple, comforting, and available everywhere. Order it medium-rare (à point) for the best flavour.
• Cheese. Don’t stick to just one. Order a planche de fromage with a glass of red wine: it is peak Paris.
• Pastries. From éclairs to tarte tatin and macarons, this is not the place to show restraint.
• French Onion Soup. Warm, cheesy, and savoury, this is the ultimate comfort food on a cold day.

My tip is to avoid restaurants with massive menus and photos of the dishes outside. Keep it simple, seasonal and local.

Suggested restaurants.

• Maison Satory. A modern bistrot with seasonal cuisine, perfect after visiting Versailles.
• Les Petits Crus. A true hidden gem for wine and cheese lovers. You can read more on my blog post: Les Petits Crus.
• Chez Suzette. Ideal for a quick, delicious crêpe on the go.
• Le Paris Paris. An excellent bistro serving traditional French cuisine.
• Francette. Located on a boat moored on the Seine, offering iconic views of the Eiffel Tower at surprisingly affordable prices.
• Relais de l’Entrecôte. This famous chain serves only one (viral) dish: steak with their secret sauce and unlimited fries. Be prepared to long queue!
• Taverne de Montmartre. Rustic atmosphere in the heart of Montmatre district
• Maison Park. Incredible French-Korean fusion for something different.
• Les Arts. Highly recommended for its famous and generous couscous close to Basilique de Saint-Denis
• Pain Vin Fromage. If you love cheese, dine here for authentic Raclette or Fondue.

Did you know that TheFork is widely popular in Paris? You can find incredible tables with great deals (sometimes up to 50% off).

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🎫 Where to Buy Tickets.

I strongly recommend booking everything in advance through official websites.

• Museums and Attractions. Book directly on the museum websites to secure your entry slot.
• Walking Tours. I widely used GuruWalk. Their tours are tip-based, available in multiple languages, and cover both main sights and thematic interests.
• River Cruise. Reserve your spot on GetYourGuide for €23 per person (link below). You can upgrade to include a glass of wine or champagne. Boarding is usually at 2 Port de Suffren, right at the foot of the Eiffel Tower.

💡 Travel Tips.

Closures and Timing.

Be mindful of the clock! Most museums close between 5 and 6 PM. Also, pay attention to closure days: many museums are closed on Mondays or Tuesdays. Schedule your visits accordingly to avoid disappointment.

Tickets and Free Entries.

Good news! Most national museums and monuments are free for anyone under 18, and for EU residents aged 18-25. However, even if your entry is free, you must book a time slot online. Bring your valid ID (passport) to show at the entrance.

Public Transport.

For the best value, purchase a Navigo Découverte pass at the airport or any major metro station. You must bring a small ID photo to stick on the card immediately, or it is not valid. The card itself costs €5 and is valid for 10 years, so you can then load weekly passes onto it.

Booking is Essential.

Parisian dining rooms are small and popular. Restaurants get fully booked quickly, especially on weekends. Make your reservations weeks in advance if you have a specific place in mind.

Paris Museum Pass.

If you are over 25, consider purchasing the Paris Museum Pass. It allows access to over 50 museums and monuments, including the Louvre and the Palace of Versailles. It often allows you to skip the ticket-buying queue, though time-slot booking is still required at major sites. Cost varies per day (check official rates as they change annually).

Siene River Cruise.

Be aware that during the winter season, departures run every 45 minutes and the final embarkation occurs around 9 PM. I recommend arriving at least 1-2 hours early to secure your spot.

🎈 Conclusion.

Paris isn’t about rushing to see everything. It’s about finding a rhythm that works for you.

Planning a trip to a city as vast and historic as Paris can feel daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. By focusing on these key neighbourhoods and balancing the heavy hitters like the Louvre with quiet strolls in Le Marais, you’ll experience the true essence of the city. With this ultimate first-timer itinerary, you will discover the most iconic places in Paris at a calm, enjoyable pace.

But remember, the best plan is one that allows for a little spontaneity. If you see a cute café or a hidden garden not on this itinerary, stop and explore it.

💬 And you? Which attraction are you looking forward to visiting first? Let me know in the comments!

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